How to tell the difference forestryimages.org Illustration by Susan Trammell, NON-NATIVE SPECIES Lower jaw protrudes Potential Invasive Species past the upper jaw Long, extended anal fin Illustration by Duane Raver
Black spot at base of tail NATIVE SPECIES Lower jaw shorter than upper jaw Short anal fin FACTS ABOUT NORTHERN SNAKEHEADS Snakeheads are native to Asia. Their name comes from the enlarged scales that cover their heads. Snakeheads are obligate air breathers. Unlike most fish, they must obtain oxygen directly from the air rather than water. They can live up to three days outside of water. They can move short distances on land through a wiggling motion. They are highly predatory, consuming mostly fish, but will also eat other small aquatic animals such as frogs and crawfish. Both male and female snakeheads are very protective of their eggs and fry. They can grow up to 3 feet in length. Four different species of snakeheads are currently found in the United States: bullseye, blotched, giant, and northern. Only northern snakeheads are found near Louisiana and present a current threat. Northern snakeheads have been reported in the following states: Mississippi, Arkansas, California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. They were released into the wild through fish markets and the aquarium trade. If you think you caught a
DO NOT put the fish For more information back into the water. or to report a possible snakehead, contact: BE ON THE Take a side view photo of the fish (if possible). Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries Office of Fisheries LOOKOUT Kill it, freeze it (double bag) Aquatic Nuisance Species Coordinator and contact your local LDWF office or call the ANS Hotline. P.O. Box 98000 Baton Rouge, LA 70898-9000 Make sure to note the exact location 225-765-3977 of the catch. This is helpful to www.wlf.la.gov determine species distribution and control/management strategies. To report any Aquatic Invasive Species WHY SHOULD I CARE? 24-hours a day:
Louisiana’s climate is similar to their native ANS Hotline: 225-765-3977 habitat, meaning snakeheads can easily ANS Email: [email protected] flourish in our waterways.
Northern snakeheads are a highly Bowfin illustration by Duane Raver predatory species that can out compete and Snakehead illustration by Susan Trammell, forestryimages.org prey on our native species. This public document was published at a total cost of $370.70. 1,000 copies of this public document were Northern snakeheads have the potential published in the first printing at a cost of $370.70. This document was published by OTS-Production Support Services, 627 North 4th St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802 for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to to devastate Louisiana’s recreational provide information on the invasive species, northern snakehead. This material was printed in accordance and commercial fisheries. with the standards for printing by state agencies established pursuant to R.S. 43:31. Printing of this material was purchased in accordance with the provisions of Title 43 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. Potential Invasive Species